Tips To Live A Happy Married Life During Economic Crisis

Marriage And Beyond

oi-Staff

Thursday, March 4, 2010, 12:06

The world economy meltdown has not only affected the stock market, but also the common man's personal life. Currently quite a few couples are on a bumpy ride across this tense situation of the society.

"The more couples spend and lose in the stock market, the more they fight. The bickering can put a huge strain on a marriage. Stress and anxiety can erode trust between partners, especially if one misunderstands why the other is acting distant or distracted," said Mary Jo Rapini, a psychotherapist with The Methodist Hospital in Houston.

According to her, partners should realize that money is symbolic and the current though conditions is not going to fade away quickly, it is the best to talk about your fears to each other. For the men, money means strength, power ans self worth. In case of women it is more of sense of security and a feeling of being loved when their husbands provide for the household.

Rapini advices the couples to write a note rather than talk when in a state of anger, as keeping feelings bulbing inside only harbors resentment in the long run, and in many cases, leads to cheating and/or divorce.

Some tips to get through the bumpy economy :

Don"t panic – If you take your money out now there will be penalties. Consider the long term view.

Cut family expenses – Sit down with your spouse and find three expenses you can cut back on. This will end up making your bond stronger.

Eat at home/Exercise together – Eating at home costs less and is healthier. Take a bike ride or walk with your spouse and talk. This is a great way to promote togetherness.

Spend time in meditation or prayer – Just 10 minutes a day can do wonders for your psyche.

Set small realistic goals – Take a few dollars from each of your paychecks and start putting away a little money now for a summer vacation.

Entertain at home – Having friends over, as opposed to going out to a restaurant or club, is much cheaper and, most of the time, more fun. You can relax, talk and share ideas of how to get out of this financial mess.

"Most healing happens when people work together. Reach out to your spouse and share your feelings with them during this difficult time. It will make it less scary and will help you to begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel," said Rapini.

With the above in your mind, you are sure to fight this wave of depression and revive your strong love bonds.